Page last updated: 17 December 2024
Florence, the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, is a historic city renowned for its Renaissance art, stunning architecture, and cultural treasures like the iconic Duomo and Uffizi Gallery.
How many tourists visit Florence each year?
Over 5.29 million domestic and international tourists visited Florence in 2023.
- In 2019, Florence welcomed 3.74 million international visitors. When the pandemic began in 2020, this number dropped by 86% to 542,000.1
- By 2021, Florence experienced a 74% decline in international tourism with 974,000 visitors.
- Inbound tourism increased to 2.83 million visitors in 2022. This trend continued into 2023, with visitor numbers rising to 3.79 million, marking a 34% increase from 2022.
How many people visited Florence in 2023?
- In 2023, Florence welcomed 5.29 million visitors, with 3.79 million being international tourists and 1.5 million domestic travellers. This marked an increase of 18% from 2022, exceeding the pre-pandemic figure.
How much do tourists spend in Florence every year?
- In 2018, tourists spent an average of $3 billion in Florence.
Which countries visit Florence the most?
The USA is the leading source of foreign tourists to Florence, followed by China, the UK and Spain.
- The USA dominated with a 58.4% market share, and China followed with a 20.2% market share.
- The UK held an 8% market share, with 912,000 visits recorded.
Florence Tourism Statistics for 2023 – International & Domestic Tourism
In 2023, Florence welcomed 1.5 million domestic visitors, indicating recovery and growth following the pandemic.
- The COVID-19 pandemic caused a drop in visitor numbers. Domestic visitors fell to 870,000 in 2020, while international visitors decreased to 671,000. The numbers slightly improved in 2021 but remained far below pre-pandemic levels.
- 2022 and 2023 showed signs of recovery in domestic and international tourism. Domestic visits increased from 1.57 million in 2022 to 1.5 million in 2023 while international tourists totalled to 2.8 million in 2022 to 3.9 million in 2023.
Why do people visit Florence?
People visit Florence for its rich cultural and historical significance, being the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to iconic landmarks like the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and Ponte Vecchio.
- Renowned for its world-class museums, the Uffizi Gallery showcases masterpieces by Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci, while the Galleria dell’Accademia houses Michelangelo’s David.
- The city’s scenic beauty is captivating, with panoramic views from Piazzale Michelangelo and charming streets, gardens, and markets.
- Visitors also indulge in Florence’s culinary delights, savouring traditional Tuscan dishes.
Florence Travel Resources
When is the best time to visit Florence, Italy?
The best time to visit Florence, Italy, is generally considered to be during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October).
Spring (April to June)
- Weather: Pleasant temperatures ranging from 60°F (15°C) to 80°F (27°C) make it ideal for exploring outdoor attractions and gardens, such as the Boboli Gardens and the Giardino dell’Iris.
- Activities: Spring is perfect for sightseeing, with many festivals and events taking place, enhancing the cultural experience.
Autumn (September to October)
- Weather: The weather is still warm but more comfortable than the summer heat, making it suitable for walking tours and outdoor dining. Temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (around 18°C to 24°C).
- Activities: Autumn is also harvest season in Tuscany, providing opportunities for wine tours and culinary experiences, especially in the Chianti region.
How many days do tourists need to visit Florence?
- The average visitor stay in Florence is around three days, with an ideal visit duration ranging from two to five days, depending on individual interests and the desired level of exploration.
What should tourists do in Florence?
- Discover Iconic Landmarks: Visit the Piazza del Duomo to marvel at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and climb Brunelleschi’s dome for panoramic views. Explore the historic Ponte Vecchio, a picturesque bridge lined with unique shops.
- Immerse in Art and Culture: Tour the Uffizi Gallery to see Renaissance masterpieces by Botticelli and Michelangelo, and visit the Galleria dell’Accademia to admire Michelangelo’s statue of David.
- Enjoy Scenic Views: Head to Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking vistas of Florence, especially stunning at sunset. Wander through the serene Bardini Gardens in the Oltrarno district.
- Dive into Culinary Delights: Take a food tour or cooking class to savour authentic Tuscan dishes like ribollita and Florentine steak, or explore the bustling Mercato Centrale for local flavours and artisanal goods.
- Experience Florence’s History: Explore the Medici Chapels, the burial site of the Medici family showcasing exquisite Renaissance art, or join a walking tour to uncover the city’s rich architectural and historical heritage.
Italy Travel Statistics Resources
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